Story perspectives

Europe's Defense: Balancing U.S. Support and Autonomy

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Matthew Kroenig of the Atlantic Council says Europe will remain reliant on the United States for security.
He notes European defense spending has risen under US pressure.
Niklas Helwig of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs argues Europe must pursue strategic autonomy as U.S. reliance diminishes.
European leaders including Emmanuel Macron acknowledge the shift.
U.S. officials Pete Hegseth and JD Vance call for Europe to take greater defense responsibility.

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Story summary

Matthew Kroenig of the Atlantic Council says Europe will remain reliant on the United States for security.
He notes European defense spending has risen under US pressure.
Niklas Helwig of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs argues Europe must pursue strategic autonomy as U.S. reliance diminishes.
European leaders including Emmanuel Macron acknowledge the shift.
U.S. officials Pete Hegseth and JD Vance call for Europe to take greater defense responsibility.